Do you need help with food, housing or essential bills today?
Speak to your probation officer, resettlement worker, local council or Citizens Advice as soon as possible. If you owe money, do not ignore letters or agree to repayments you cannot afford. Free, confidential support is available.
Choose what you need
What do you need help with?
Your first steps
Your first steps after prison
You may not need to complete every step. Start with the one that is most important for you today.
Gather essential information
- Identification
- Phone number
- Email address
- Address, hostel address or trusted care-of address
- Tenancy or housing documents
- Existing bank account details
- Information about benefits, income, bills and debts
If you are still in prison, ask your prison work coach or resettlement worker for help preparing these things before release.
GOV.UK guide for people leaving prison
Official guidance on preparing for Universal Credit, gathering identification, opening a bank account and getting support after release.
Open a bank account
A bank account makes it easier to receive benefits or wages and pay regular bills. A fee-free basic bank account does not include an overdraft, so you cannot spend more money than you have.
Opening a bank account before release
Unlock
Guidance on opening a basic bank account from prison, the information you may need and how prison staff can help.
Fee-free basic bank accounts
MoneyHelper
Learn how basic bank accounts work, what identification may be accepted and what to do if you do not have a fixed address.
Apply for benefits
You cannot normally submit a Universal Credit claim before release. Apply as soon as possible after leaving prison because your claim usually begins on the date it is submitted.
A Universal Credit advance is a loan. It will be repaid through deductions from future benefit payments.
Universal Credit for people leaving prison
GOV.UK
Benefits calculators
GOV.UK
Universal Credit support
Citizens Advice
Check for additional support
Turn2us Benefits Calculator
Turn2us Grants Search
Budgeting
Make a simple plan for your money
A budget is simply a plan for the money coming in and going out. It can help you cover your essentials, understand what you can afford and spot problems early.
- 1Write down all money coming in.
- 2List essential costs such as rent, food, energy and travel.
- 3Add regular bills and their payment dates.
- 4List debts, arrears, court fines and other money owed.
- 5Calculate what is left for other spending.
If there is not enough money to cover everything, do not panic or borrow immediately. Use the free resources below to work out what to do next.
MoneyHelper tools and calculators
My Money Steps
National Debtline
Bills and debt
Get support with bills and debt
Some missed payments have more serious consequences than others. Rent, Council Tax, energy bills and court fines may need attention before credit cards or other unsecured debts.
Do not agree to repayments you cannot afford. List what you owe, identify your priority bills and get free advice.
Bill Prioritiser
MoneyHelper
Debt Advice Locator
MoneyHelper
Housing
Get help with housing and rent
If you have nowhere to live, are at risk of homelessness or cannot afford your rent, ask for help as soon as possible. Your local council, probation officer or resettlement worker may also be able to make a housing referral.
Build your money skills
Build your confidence with money
Once your immediate needs are more stable, these resources can help you understand budgeting, borrowing, saving and protecting your money.
MSE's Academy of Money
The Open University and MoneySavingExpert
A free introductory course covering budgeting, tax, borrowing, credit histories, saving and planning ahead. Study at your own pace and earn a free digital badge.
Support after leaving prison
Nacro
Explore specialist support relating to resettlement, accommodation, benefits, debt, identification and rebuilding life after prison.
Available services vary by location and may require a referral.
Help to Save
GOV.UK
Focus on food, housing, essential bills and urgent debts before beginning to save.
Find a credit union
Staying safe
Protect yourself from scams and unsafe lending
Be cautious if someone contacts you unexpectedly, pressures you to act quickly or promises easy money. Never share your PIN, password or security codes.
Financial scam guidance
Financial Conduct Authority
Loan shark support
GOV.UK
You do not have to sort everything out today
Choose the step that matters most right now. Getting support early can help you protect your income, housing and future choices.
This page provides general information and links to independent organisations. It is not financial or legal advice. Services, eligibility rules and contact details can change, so check the provider's website for the latest information.
Resources last reviewed: July 2026